Who Likes the Iran Nuclear Deal?

There has been a strong negative reaction to the recent Iran nuclear deal.   One citizen group has even bought commercial television time to express their displeasure.  The deal between the Iranians and five other nations limits the Middle East country's nuclear program. According to Pew Research, among the 79% of American who have heard about the agreement only 38% approve of it.  On the other hand, 48% disapprove of the plan, with 14% having no opinion.

Much of the skepticism centers on the Iranian leadership's commitment to the terms. Among those familiar with the agreement; 38% have no confidence in Iran's leadership, and 35% have "not too much" confidence.  The skepticism seems to increase with age: 56% of those over age 65 and 54% of those ages 50-64 disapprove of the pact.  Among those ages 30-49, 42% disapprove.  Millennials are the only age group who approved of the agreement. Among millennials (ages 18-30) 42% approve and 39% disapprove.

As a general rule, millennials are not "news junkies" like many older Americans.  In response to the the question, "Have you heard about the recent nuclear agreement?" only 21% of those ages 18-29 reported the had "heard a lot.  Even more surprising, 43% had "heard little.: It is not just a matter of not being in touch with current events.  There are other factors that we need to consider when trying to understand young adults and their position on this issue.

Young people are idealistic.  When it comes to conflict they, probably more than any other age group, take a "can't we all just get along attitude."  They also want to see the world change and believe they can make a difference..

They are collaborators.  They want to network with others and work together for the common good. In this case they see the fact that five countries, plus Iran, can work together to agree on anything as a positive thing.

They have grown up in a diverse culture. In most cases millennials have grown up with peers who come from a variety of cultures and backgrounds.  Some of their classmates, even their friends, who might have roots in Iran or other Middle Eastern countries.

They have been taught tolerance.  They are much more patient and accepting when it comes to working with people who are different.

As older adults, we need to seek to listen and seek to understand them.  Only when we do that can we hope to make a difference in their lives, and it the end make a difference in the world.